Inflammation of the lymph nodes in the groin of women. Why are the lymph nodes inflamed in the groin

Lymphatic vessels and nodes are considered peripheral organs of the immune system. They are needed in order to prevent the spread of infectious agents. There are many groups of lymph nodes, each of which is responsible for a particular area of ​​the body. Normally, they are practically not palpable and are painless. Inflammation of the lymph nodes in the groin in women indicates an infection process in the lower half of the body. It can be located in the pelvic region or on the legs. If the lymph node is enlarged in the groin, then this is the reason for seeking medical help. Most often, this symptom is a manifestation of gynecological pathologies. It should be remembered that the inflammation of the inguinal lymph nodes will not go away on its own, and it must be treated. Sometimes this manifestation refers to more serious pathologies, therefore, the sooner treatment is started, the more chances for complete recovery.

The cause of inflammation of the lymph nodes in the groin in women

There are many factors leading to inflammation of the lymph nodes in the groin. Since they collect fluid from all the organs of the pelvis and lower extremities, it is impossible to tell right away exactly where the infectious focus is located. Inflammation of the lymph nodes in the groin in women often indicates sexually transmitted diseases. In addition, it may indicate neoplasms located in the pelvis. In inflammatory processes in the urinary system, there is also a slight increase and pain in the inguinal lymph nodes. Most often this is observed with chronic cystitis and urethritis, as well as if there are kidney stones or bladder. The direct cause of inflammation of the inguinal lymph nodes are bacterial, viral and fungal infections. The most frequent pathogens of the pathological process are staphylococcus. These microorganisms infect the lymphatic system only in the presence of a source of infection in the urogenital system.

There is also a high probability of an increase in the inguinal nodes in case of fungal diseases of the reproductive organs or feet.If there is no pathological focus, another group of pathologies should be suspected, for example, Hodgkin's disease or infectious mononucleosis. In these pathologies, only the lymphatic system is affected, and there are no lesions of the pelvic organs and lower extremities. To identify these diseases it is necessary to conduct special studies.

Signs of inflammation

In order to detect inflammation of the lymph nodes in the groin of women, it is not necessary to be a specialist. Clinical manifestations of this condition are visible to the naked eye. The inflamed lymph node is always enlarged, hyperemic and painful. On palpation of the inguinal folds, a round seal resembling a ball is determined. The temperature at the site of the inflamed lymph node may be slightly higher than in neighboring areas of the skin. The pathological process can be localized on one side or on both sides. In addition to changes in lymph nodes, there are common manifestations of pathology. In inflammatory processes of the uterus and appendages, pain is noted in the lower abdomen, fever, and general weakness are possible.With urinary infections - vaginal discharge, itching or burning. For specific diseases, there are characteristic symptoms, such as a rash, a change in laboratory data.

Research

Inflammation of the lymph nodes in the groin in women requires careful diagnosis. The study begins with inspection and palpation. When abnormalities are detected, the doctor feels the problem area more thoroughly. It is very important to estimate the size, shape, mobility and density of the enlarged formation. If you suspect cancer of the lymph nodes (Hodgkin's disease), a biopsy with histology is performed. If the doctor suggests that the patient has inflammatory or sexually transmitted infections, then a number of additional studies are performed. First of all, it is a general analysis of blood, urine, pelvic ultrasound. Depending on the results of the examination, a more detailed diagnosis is prescribed: a study for HIV, a cytomegalovirus, a herpes infection, etc.

Differential diagnostics

In order not to be mistaken in what kind of pathology the doctor deals with, a thorough examination is carried out.It is very important to pay attention to the location of the lymph nodes in the groin. Unilateral inflammation most often speaks of an infectious disease or oncological process in the appendages. An increase in both lymph nodes in the presence of certain complaints (itching, burning, vaginal discharge) may indicate a venereal disease. Hodgkin's disease is accompanied by a decrease in body weight, low-grade fever. The same symptoms are observed with AIDS. The final diagnosis can only be established by a specialist.

Lymph node in groin enlarged: what to do?

If you find swollen lymph nodes, you should consult a general practitioner. The doctor will prescribe the necessary examination, after which it will become clear what pathology was the cause of this symptom. If a woman has a chronic inflammatory process in the organs of the urogenital system or benign growths (for example, an ovarian cyst), then you can immediately contact a specialist (gynecologist, oncologist). Tightening with a trip to the doctor should not be, because the increase in lymph nodes is observed in case of serious pathologies (lymphoma, lymphoma, pelvic tumors), which need treatment immediately. Only an experienced doctor will be able to prescribe adequate therapy.

Treatment for inflammation of the lymph nodes

Therapy should be aimed at eliminating the cause of the disease, that is, at the site of the infection. However, local procedures are also prescribed that act directly on the lymph nodes. Treatment in the groin should be particularly delicate. In rare cases, dry heat and physiotherapy are prescribed to the site of an enlarged lymph node. More acceptable is the imposition of lotions with infusion of echinacea, dandelion.